UK is considering how to support electric cars

The government has launched a special consultation which will run until 18 February.

Photo by: BMW

By: Eleonora Lilli

Dec 28, 2024 at 2:04am ET

Comment

How can we ensure that, from 2030, only new electric cars are sold in the UK? The government is looking for the best answer in a consultation that will run until 18 February. The decision comes after carmakers repeatedly challenged the ZEV mandate, which required them to achieve a 22% share of electric car sales by 2024.

Although in October, according to SMMT data, the BEV share for new cars reached 21%, many manufacturers face fines of up to £15,000 per vehicle if they fail to meet the target, so the UK has decided to review the rules. The consultation that has just been launched is divided into two parts.

How can petrol and diesel cars be phased out?

The first part of the consultation focuses on phasing out sales of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 and supporting the transition to zero emissions. This exchange is exclusively for the UK Government and seeks views on the following:

Stopping sales of new internal combustion engine cars from 2030;
Potential requirements for the sale of new non-zero emission vans between 2030 and 2035;
reviewing the approach for small volume manufacturers;
requiring measures to support the uptake of zero-emission vehicles.

Objective: to support electric cars

The second part of the consultation concerns the ZEV mandate and involves the UK Government, the Scottish Government, the Welsh Government and the Department for Infrastructure (NI). The consultation covers two aspects: existing flexibilities under the ZEV mandate and consideration of new flexibilities; and further technical updates to the ZEV mandate to ensure its effectiveness.

The data gathered will serve as a basis for possible future changes to the ZEV mandate and the CO2 regulation.

The Lake District National Park also charges electric cars

Photo : BMW

The reaction of car manufacturers

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), one of the UK's largest and most influential trade associations, which represents the interests of the motor industry at home and abroad, has welcomed the government's review of the expiry date for cars running solely on petrol or diesel, as well as possible changes to the flexibilities under the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate.

Tell us what you think!

View

Comments

"These are critical issues for an industry that faces significant global challenges as it seeks to decarbonise ahead of natural market demand," said Mike Hawes, CEO of the SMMT. "Aside from the billions invested in new technologies and products, it has cost manufacturers in excess of £4 billion in discounting in the UK this year alone."

"This is unsustainable and, with the 2025 market looking under even greater pressure, it is imperative we get an urgent resolution, with a clear intent to adapt the regulation to support delivery, backed by bold incentives to stimulate demand. Such action will support not only the industry, but also deliver for the economy, consumer, government and the environment."